Man tried to burn down sister’s home, DA says

A 52-year-old Racine man faces four felony charges after he allegedly tried to burn down his sister’s house Tuesday.

Clifford E. Mullins was charged in Racine County Circuit Court on Thursday with three felony counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and a felony count of attempted arson. The arson charge carries a fine of $50,000 and 20 years in prison, while each of the endangering safety charges carries a fine of $25,000 and 12 years, six months in prison.

Mullins, who is in custody, made his initial court appearance Thursday.

According to the criminal complaint:
Mullins and his sister were involved in a verbal argument at her home. The defendant was told to leave, which he did. However, a few minutes later, another occupant smelled smoke. Mullins was observed holding a burning piece of cardboard to her window, which was open but had a screen.

When the victim confronted Mullins, he said he would kill her. Mullins left before police arrived. Later that morning, the defendant allegedly returned, where the woman saw him lying outside by his property. He threatened to kill her and burn down her house while she slept.